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Celebrate a local icon

Celebrate the life and times of Anne Mirvish at the Anne Mirvish Gala at University College at the University of Toronto on Jan. 24. The gala is a fundraiser for the Anne Mirvish Performing Arts Scholarships, which support students who are studying the performing arts at the University of Toronto.

Organized by two of Mirvish’s closest friends, Professor Pia Kleber, who ran the drama program at U of T for many decades, and artist and scenic designer Astrid Janson, the gala will highlight her eclectic style through an exhibit of 100 outfits accompanied by archival photos, film, and music. U of T drama students past — including Maev Beaty, Yanna McIntosh, and Lisa Ryder — and present will model the clothes, and all garments and accessories will be available for sale by live and silent auctions.

Mirvish, who died at the age of 94 in 2013, was, along with her husband “Honest” Ed Mirvish, a much-loved Torontonian who left a lasting impact on the greater Annex neighbourhood. An artist herself, she was the driving force behind the creation of Mirvish Village, a haven for artists and small business owners inspired by a similar block on Gerard Street East.

To learn more about the gala, buy tickets, or get a sneak peak of the outfits on parade, please visit annemirvishgala.weebly.com.­­